Meet 2023 Diabetes Scholar Kalei P

Beyond Type 1 is honored to highlight the 2023 Class of Diabetes Scholars, which make up our future doctors, nurses, policymakers, educators, pilots, athletes and more! 

Read this Q+A to get to know more about one of our 24 recipients this year and Kalei’s aspirations and hopes for college.

What are your favorite hobbies?

Some of my favorite hobbies include surfing, hiking, soccer, going to the beach, reading and knitting. I am also trying to learn to skateboard but that is a work in progress. 

Other things I enjoy include hanging out with my friends and family, thrifting and shelling. I also enjoy looking for vintage records at different thrift and vintage shops to add to my collection in my room. I always love to play them on my player when I get home.

What are you most looking forward to in college?

In college, I am excited about so many different things; the football games, the student section, all of the activities and especially the town I will be living in. 

But what I am most looking forward to as I head into college is the friends and family I will meet and make. I am excited about the bonds that will be formed and the memories that will be made.

What advice do you have for anyone getting ready for college with type 1 diabetes (T1D)?

Some advice I have for other T1Ds getting ready to go to college is first of all, do not stress or be scared. Everything is and will work out for you. 

Another piece of advice is to talk to your roommate. Whether you know them or not, have a sit down talk or Facetime and just tell them about what your disease entails. Ask them if they would be comfortable in helping if there was any emergency and if they are willing to know where the emergency supplies are. 

We’re all very excited for these bright Scholars, so make sure to learn more about the rest of the class of 2023.